understanding the psychology of the family
August 26, 2019
Family Communication Problems
Family Communication Problems
Communication is very important to any relationship. It is how we work ou
t problems,
learn about each other and strengthen our relationship bond. In a family, communication is
a must. If you are going to resolve conflicts or solve problems, you have to
communicate with each other. But when it comes to fostering and nurturing relationships, it is often the
family relationship that is left wanting. So many times we take it for granted
that our family will always be there. But as with any relationship, that without
family takes work.
 |
| Family Communication |
1. Everyone Gets a Turn: - In any discussion,
it is important that each person gets a turn to speak. Many times, though,
group attempts to discuss an important topic wind up with everyone trying to
talk over each other. No one hears what the others are saying and nothing is
accomplished. To ensure that everyone gets a turn, use a timer and give each
person equal time to say whatever she feels, to talk about any ideas she may
have and to ask any questions. The catch is that while that person is talking,
no one can interrupt her. Family members can take notes if they like so that
they can address things that are said when it is their turn to talk, but
interruptions are not allowed.
2. Stay Focused: - Relationships can get emotional and erupt into hurtful exchanges that
solve nothing. It is important that when you sit down for discussion, you stay
focused on the topic at hand. Don't drag up issues that happened months ago or
that have no relevance to the issue at hand. This type of dirty fighting leads
nowhere helpful. If everyone stays focused on the problem and works toward a
solution, things will go a lot smoother. Don't use communication as an
emotional data dump. Instead, encourage sharing, exchanging ideas and finding
solutions together.
3. Don't take it personally: -When you sit down as a family, communication should be about the issue.
If someone shoots down your idea or says things that get under your skin, don't
take it personally. If you do, you'll get defensive--and that is not
productive. Don't take things to heart or internalize them, and don't argue. If
you disagree with a family member, wait until it is your turn to talk and
calmly explain your position. Try not to be defensive and don't try to put
others on the defensive.
4. Avoid the Gripe Session: -The family relationship can be a tenuous one. Often you live together
and spend a great deal of time together. When it comes to family, communication
often leaves a lot to be desired. Keep your family communication healthy--don't
turn it into a gripe session. If you have valid complaints, you can voice them,
but if you are going to nag, whine and complain, you will get nowhere and
simply waste your efforts.
5. Listen: -The most important element of effective communication is listening.
Stop, close your mouth and open your ears. Sometimes people just need to vent
and they need someone to be quiet and listen to them. If you stop and listen to
your family members, you might surprise at what you hear. Listening is one of
the most loving forms of communication that you can enter into. When you stop
and listen to someone, you are sending him the message that you care about him
and about what he is saying.
6. Don't assume: - Don't assume that the people in your family know how you feel about
them. Words are very powerful when spoken. However, the words that you don't
say can be just as powerful. If you are a parent, when was the last time you
told your child that you love her? Or that you accept her or that you are proud
of her? Say what you feel to your family members. Communication is not about
assuming that they already know, it is about letting them know.
